The God Who Stands Between Us and the Stones

The God Who Stands Between Us and the Stones

Speaker: Pastor Caleb Culver
Date: October 20, 2025

This Sunday’s message from Pastor Caleb Culver dives into John 8 and the woman accused of adultery. When confronted with her sin, Jesus doesn’t dismiss it—He takes it upon Himself. He paid the price for our sins—but are we living in freedom, or still living condemned?

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:

Day 1: The God Who Stands Between Us and Condemnation

Reading: John 8:1–11

Devotional: Today’s passage reveals Jesus’ profound mercy in the face of human accusation and condemnation. As we read about the woman caught in adultery, reflect on times you’ve felt exposed, ashamed, or condemned. Jesus doesn’t ignore her sin, but He offers grace and a new path forward. His words, “Neither do I condemn you,” echo through the ages, reminding us that in Christ there is no condemnation (Rom. 8:1). How might you extend this same grace to yourself and others today? Ask God to help you see yourself and those around you through His eyes of mercy.

Day 2: The Mirror of the Law and the Grace of Christ

Reading: Galatians 3:19–26

Devotional: The law serves as a mirror, showing us our flaws and our need for a Savior. But like a mirror, it can’t transform us—it only reveals our condition. Today’s reading explains how the law leads us to Christ. Consider areas in your life where you feel you’re falling short. Instead of wallowing in guilt, let those shortcomings drive you to Jesus. He doesn’t just forgive; He empowers us to “go and sin no more.” Pray for the Holy Spirit to transform you in ways the law never could, and trust God’s grace to cover your imperfections.

Day 3: Silencing the Accuser

Reading: Zechariah 3:1–5

Devotional: This powerful vision shows Satan accusing Joshua the high priest, much like the accusers in John 8. But God rebukes Satan and clothes Joshua in clean garments. This foreshadows Christ taking our shame and giving us His righteousness. Reflect on the “filthy garments” of guilt or shame you might still be wearing. Visualize Jesus removing them and clothing you in His purity. When accusatory thoughts come—whether from others or from your own mind—practice hearing God’s rebuke of the accuser. Thank Jesus for standing between you and condemnation.

Day 4: The Verdict of Grace

Reading: Romans 8:1–4

Devotional: Paul declares the astounding truth that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. The law of sin and death has been overruled by the law of the Spirit of life. Meditate on what it means to be in Christ. How does this identity shield you from condemnation? Consider areas where you might be condemning yourself or others. Are you demanding a perfection that Christ has already satisfied? Ask God to align your view of yourself with His verdict of “not guilty” through Christ’s sacrifice.

Day 5: From Condemnation to Confidence

Reading: 1 John 3:19–24

Devotional: John addresses the reality that our hearts sometimes condemn us, even when God does not. He reminds us that God is greater than our hearts. When we feel unworthy or ashamed, we can come to God in confidence, knowing He knows all and still loves us. Reflect on how you speak to yourself. Are your inner dialogues filled with grace or condemnation? Practice replacing self-condemning thoughts with truths from Scripture about God’s love and acceptance. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a deeper assurance of God’s love, silencing the voice of condemnation with the louder voice of grace.